What Is Balanced Reciprocity?

Balanced reciprocity is a type of reciprocal exchange where an immediate return is expected for what is given. Reciprocity helps hold family, friends and the economy together.

The trading, buying and selling of goods and services is done for economic and/or social gain. Balanced reciprocity does not require the items exchanged to be of the same monetary value. The adage "it is the thought that counts" is a good description for balanced reciprocity.

Balanced reciprocity is one of three types of socioeconomic reciprocity. The other two are generalized reciprocity and negative reciprocity.

Some examples of balanced reciprocity are making purchases in a store, bartering for an item and exchanging Christmas gifts.